surf the Internet, and engage in conversations around TD Bank Ballpark.

The two-week hideout for Nettles and several of his Somerset Patriots teammates — who did everything in their power to avoid seeing their 2009 Atlantic League championship rings too soon — ended with the on-field presentation as part of a ceremony before Friday night’s home opener against the Bridgeport Bluefish.

“We worked so hard for it,” Nettles said, “and we want to see what they look like on (home) opening day. That’s special. You don’t want to have it spoiled.”

With a photograph of the rings posted on Facebook and others hanging around the ballpark, keeping the surprise intact proved more difficult than expected.

Front-office staff received their rings several weeks ago.

“I would rather not see it on paper for the first time,” first baseman Josh Pressley said. “We did it together as a team and we want to see the rings together as a team. It’s a little harder than I thought it was going to be. You have to make a conscious effort.”

Second baseman Matt Hagen avoided the ballpark elevator after hearing that a photo of the ring was hanging opposite the doors.

“When you first get it, it’s like a little flashback,” Hagen said. “You get that same feeling you had at the end of last year.”

The 2009 Patriots became the first repeat champion in the league’s 13-year history and set a league record for best regular-season record (86-54).

Thirteen total players and coaches returned to the team this season.

“I think this is the best one because it’s back-to-back,” said manager Sparky Lyle, who has led the Patriots to five championships. “It’s really gratifying to be able to accomplish that. This ring has to be a little special because last year was special all the way around.”

Five replica trophies encircled by the words “Atlantic League Champions” adorn the silver face of the gold ring. One side is engraved with “Drive for Five,” “86-54,” “back to back” and “2009.” The other side includes the recipient’s last name and the Patriots’ logo.

“Last year was my first ring, but, saying that, I don’t think I’m any less excited this year,” Hagen said. “I like to wear (last year’s ring) once in a while, whenever a little frosting is appropriate.”

Left fielder Joe Burke felt anticipation building for the ring ceremony during spring training — at a time when opening day usually is the primary focus.

“All the games count, but this is a good day for everybody,” Burke said. “I just want to open my ring and feel excited. The game almost becomes secondary, but I’m sure we’ll carry that excitement in.”

The celebration included raising a fifth championship flag beyond the center-field fence and the presentation of awards to Lyle (Manager of the Year) and Nettles (Championship Series Most Valuable Player).

It brought positive energy to the Patriots during a five-game losing streak.

“It’s a different team, a different year,” right fielder Noah Hall said, “but maybe this will motivate us to play a little better.”

M-Rod returns

Retired outfielder Mike Rodriguez, who hit .252 in 113 games for the Patriots last season, flew in from Florida to participate in the festivities.

“For me, it wasn’t an option not to come,” said Rodriguez, who has returned to college and is taking finals Monday. “When you have a group of guys who are as close as we are and you grind it out to win a championship like we did, you have to be a part of it. I’m sure everyone feels the same way. Wherever I was, I was coming.”

Next Up

Tom Mastny, who was scratched from a start earlier this week because of an eye infection, pitches against Bridgeport’s Riley Shuckerow at 7 p.m. Saturday at TD Bank Ballpark.